Mississippi Workers’ Comp Benefits and Claims Process

How to File a Work Injury Claim in Kosciusko & What to Expect

Injured on the Job? Here's What Mississippi Workers’ Comp Should Cover.


If you’ve been hurt at work, your focus should be on healing—not chasing paperwork or second-guessing your rights. At Frank Shaw Law Firm, we guide clients across Kosciusko and Attala County through every step of the Mississippi workers’ comp process, making sure they get the benefits they’re owed.



From missed wages to medical care, workers’ comp exists to support you after a job injury. But getting those benefits isn’t always simple. Here’s what you need to know about filing a claim and understanding what Mississippi workers comp benefits actually cover.

Step One: Report the Injury Right Away

The most important thing you can do after a workplace injury is report it—and do it quickly. In Mississippi, the law requires you to notify your employer as soon as possible. While the formal deadline is 30 days, we recommend doing it immediately, even if the injury seems minor.



Once reported, you should:

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Get medical treatment—you have the right to choose your own doctor in Mississippi (you are not limited to the employer’s choice).
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Keep records—write down the date of the injury, where it happened, and who you reported it to.
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Avoid delays—waiting too long to report or seek treatment can hurt your claim.

Whether you slipped at work on Highway 12 or strained your back in a warehouse off Veterans Memorial Drive, prompt action gives your claim a stronger foundation.

How to File a Workers’ Comp Claim in Mississippi

After reporting the injury, your employer should file a First Report of Injury with their insurance carrier. If they don’t—or if they drag their feet—you can file directly with the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission.



Here’s the basic process:

This process can get technical, especially when forms aren’t filled out correctly or deadlines are missed. If your employer or their insurance company isn’t responsive, it’s time to speak with a work injury attorney in Attala County who can step in and keep things on track.

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Employer reports injury to insurance
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Insurance opens a claim and begins evaluation
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You receive benefits if approved—or a denial letter if not
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If denied, you may appeal the decision (we can help with that)

What Benefits Are Available Through Mississippi Workers’ Comp?

When you’re approved for benefits, you may receive support in a few key areas. Mississippi workers’ compensation generally covers:

Medical expenses

All necessary and reasonable treatment related to your injury, including doctor visits, prescriptions, surgeries, physical therapy, and medical devices

Temporary disability

Partial wage replacement if you’re unable to work during recovery

Permanent disability

Compensation if you are permanently impaired or lose the ability to return to your prior job

Mileage reimbursement

For travel to and from authorized medical visits

Vocational rehabilitation

In some cases, retraining may be available if you can’t return to your previous work

How Much Will I Receive—and for How Long?

 Mississippi typically pays injured workers two-thirds of their average weekly wage, up to a maximum cap set by law. This is known as your “temporary total disability” benefit, and it continues until you’ve recovered enough to return to work or reach what’s called maximum medical improvement (MMI).



  • If you return to work with restrictions and earn less, temporary partial disability may apply.
  • If you’re permanently injured, your benefits may be calculated based on the severity and type of impairment.
  • Some benefits, like mileage reimbursement, are available throughout your treatment.

Every case is different, and payments depend on injury type, job history, and medical documentation. If your payments stop too soon or don’t seem correct, our office can help evaluate your situation.

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You won’t be left guessing. We explain every step and give real answers.
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You won’t miss a deadline. We manage your case timeline and file on time, every time.
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You won’t go it alone. We’ll be there in every hearing and phone call to make sure your voice is heard.

When to Involve a Workers’ Comp Lawyer in Mississippi

Many people start the process alone but soon realize they’re not getting straight answers—or any answers at all. You may need legal help if:

  • Your claim is denied without clear reason
  • The insurance company delays your treatment or checks
  • You’re told you can’t choose your own doctor
  • You’re being pushed back to work before you’re ready
  • You’re confused by the paperwork or deadlines
  • You just want someone in your corner who’s done this before

Frank Shaw Law Firm has helped thousands of injured workers across Mississippi—and we’re here for you too.

Learn more about how we fight denied claims Explore our full Workers’ Comp FAQ

Have Questions About Your Benefits? Call Today for Straight Answers.

Workers’ comp shouldn’t be this hard. If the process is leaving you frustrated or uncertain, call us. We’ll review your situation and help you understand what benefits you may qualify for—and how to get them.

Call 662-289-4740 for a free consultation.

We don’t charge unless we win benefits for you.